DOH: The flu is no longer prevalent in NYS
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- In an announcement that officially lifts the state's mask mandate for healthcare workers without a flu vaccine, New York State's Department of Health says influenza is no longer prevalent in the state.
“As influenza season winds down and the virus is no longer prevalent in New York, we are rescinding the masking requirement for health care workers in hospitals, nursing homes, and adult care facilities who have not been vaccinated against flu,” NYS Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said.
Influenza was declared prevalent in New York in the middle of National Influenza Vaccination Week, on December 6. New York saw more than 25,000 hospitalizations from the flu during the 2023-24 flu season. These peaked near the end of 2023 going into 2024.
"Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu shot as it is the best way to protect yourself and will lessen the symptoms if you do get sick," Dr. McDonald said while making the declaration in December.
Evan Anstey is an Associated Press Award, JANY Award and Emmy-nominated digital producer who has been part of the News 4 team since 2015. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.